Theosis

Introduction to Theosis
The concept of theosis is a central tenet of Orthodox Christian theology and spirituality. It is a profound and transformative doctrine that speaks to the ultimate purpose and destiny of the human person in relation to God.

The Meaning of Theosis
Theosis, also known as deification or divinization, is the process by which a person becomes united with God. It is the journey towards becoming partakers of the divine nature, as stated in 2 Peter 1:4, "partakers of the divine nature." This process is not a literal change into God, but rather a participation in God's energies, allowing the believer to grow in holiness and likeness to Christ.

Theosis in Orthodox Theology
In Orthodox theology, theosis is the goal of human life and the fulfillment of God's plan for humanity. It is achieved through a synergy between God's grace and human effort. This means that while God initiates and sustains the process of theosis, human beings must actively cooperate with God's grace through prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and participation in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist.

The Role of Christ in Theosis
Christ is the model and the means of theosis. Through His Incarnation, life, death, and Resurrection, Christ has made it possible for humanity to be deified. The Orthodox Church teaches that in Christ, God became man so that humans might become godly (2 Peter 1:4). Christ's resurrection is seen as the first fruits of the resurrection to come, pointing to the ultimate transformation of all creation.

The Process of Theosis
The process of theosis is lifelong and involves both the purification of the soul and the illumination of the mind. It is a journey that begins with baptism and continues through the sacramental life of the Church. Theosis is not achieved in this life but progresses towards its fulfillment in the age to come.

Conclusion
In conclusion, theosis is the doctrine of becoming one with God, a transformative journey that is at the heart of Orthodox Christian life and practice. It is a process that involves both divine grace and human cooperation, with Christ as the model and means of our deification. Theosis is the ultimate purpose of life and the fulfillment of God's plan for us, leading to eternal communion with Him.

May you find encouragement in the journey of theosis, as you strive to grow in holiness and communion with God. Amen.

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

https://www.goarch.org/

[Mechan_9]

“Belief is a wise wager. Granted that faith cannot be proved, what harm will come to you if you gamble on its truth and it proves false? If you gain, you gain all; if you lose, you lose nothing. Wager, then, without hesitation, that He exists.”
― Blaise Pascal, Pensées

[꧁༼⛧°ɹʎחʞ°⛧༽꧂]